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Crispy Buttermilk Chicken: The Ultimate Recipe for Perfectly Fried Flavor

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this Crispy Buttermilk Chicken recipe. Marinated in a flavorful buttermilk mixture, the chicken thighs are coated in a seasoned flour blend and fried to golden perfection, resulting in a tender, juicy interior and a crunchy, flavorful crust that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Whisk until well combined. Make shallow cuts in the skin of the chicken thighs, then submerge them in the buttermilk mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  2. In a shallow dish, mix together 2 cups of flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until evenly combined.
  3. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack or plate and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken thighs, skin side down, and fry for 7-10 minutes until golden brown. Flip and fry for another 7-10 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
  5. Transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and enjoy with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • For an extra crispy coating, consider double-dipping the chicken: after the first coating, dip it back into the buttermilk and then back into the flour mixture.
  • Adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour mixture can enhance the flavor.
  • Maintain the oil temperature while frying to ensure a crispy texture.